WANA (Mar 08 ) – Qatar’s Prime Minister, Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, has rejected claims that Iran is on the verge of acquiring nuclear weapons, stating, “We have never heard, seen, or experienced such a thing.”

 

In an interview, Al Thani emphasized Qatar’s commitment to maintaining strong relations with its neighbors, including Iran. “Iran is our neighbor, and we strive to maintain good relations with all our neighbors. We share many common interests with Iran, including gas fields. Cooperation is essential in areas such as environmental protection, security, and combating smuggling,” he said.

 

Regional Cooperation Overcomes Disagreements

Al Thani acknowledged differences between Qatar and Iran on issues such as Syria and Lebanon but stressed that bilateral relations remain strong. “When it comes to our direct relations, we set aside our differences because partnership and cooperation are essential,” he noted. He highlighted recent improvements in Iran-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) relations, stating that strong regional ties benefit all parties.

 

The Qatari leader emphasized dialogue as the key to resolving disputes, saying, “We discuss our differences to reach a mutual understanding.”

 

Qatar Defends Ties with Iran Against U.S. Criticism

Addressing concerns from Washington about Qatar’s close relations with Tehran, Al Thani dismissed the criticism as misguided. “Our policies are clear: we aim to have no enemies and to be friends with everyone. We seek peace in our region and globally,” he told American commentator Tucker Carlson.

 

He argued that U.S. policymakers lack direct regional experience. “Washington views the situation from thousands of miles away without understanding the realities on the ground. These relationships are crucial for regional stability and the GCC.”

 

Al Thani also pushed back against the idea that the U.S. must manage global crises. “Every region must take responsibility for its own stability,” he said.

 

Iran’s Nuclear Program and Regional Concerns

Asked about Iran’s nuclear program and how close Tehran might be to developing nuclear weapons, Al Thani reiterated Qatar’s opposition to nuclear proliferation. “A nuclear weapon in any country—whether Iran or another—would not benefit our region. If any nation were pursuing a nuclear weapons program, it would be a serious security concern for all.”

 

He stressed the need for clear international standards for nuclear facilities. “What matters is that nuclear activities comply with international standards. Iran’s leadership has issued a religious decree against nuclear weapons, and we hope diplomacy leads to a resolution that ensures Iran’s program remains peaceful while lifting sanctions,” he said.

 

Military Action Against Iran Would Spark a Regional War

On the possibility of a U.S. military strike against Iran’s nuclear facilities, Al Thani warned that such an action would escalate into a full-scale regional conflict. “A military strike will not remain limited; it will spread across the region and lead to war,” he cautioned.

 

“No country would remain passive if attacked. Retaliation would be inevitable. Qatar will not support any military action in the region, and we remain committed to diplomatic solutions,” he added.

 

He also highlighted the environmental risks of an attack on Iran’s nuclear plants, particularly for Gulf states. “A strike on Iran’s nuclear facilities would be an environmental disaster. Qatar relies on desalinated water from the Gulf, and if these waters are contaminated, the country could run out of drinking water within three days. This would also affect Kuwait and the UAE,” he warned.

 

Negotiating a Deal with Iran Is Achievable

Al Thani expressed confidence that a diplomatic agreement with Iran is possible. “Iranian officials are open to negotiations and are focused on improving regional relations. There is a real opportunity for dialogue,” he said, urging all parties to engage in constructive discussions.

 

Sanctions Are Ineffective and Harm Ordinary People

Regarding U.S. sanctions on Iran, Al Thani argued that such measures do not work. “Sanctions do not punish governments; they punish ordinary people. They create black markets and illegal economic systems,” he said.

 

He pointed out that sanctioned countries find ways to bypass restrictions. “Trade continues despite sanctions, with transactions shifting to alternative currencies. This trend is leading countries away from using the U.S. dollar, which is not beneficial in the long run.”

 

Al Thani questioned why Washington continues to impose sanctions despite their ineffectiveness. “When diplomacy is not pursued and military action is off the table, sanctions remain the only tool for exerting pressure. But history shows that sanctions have never been truly effective.”